by Cori Bonnell

Now that the temps are rising and the sun has made its way through the thick grey clouds of this winter we here in NYC now look forward to many things that begin to open up and remind us that summer is on its way. This means we can comfortably dine outdoors without the assistance of gas powered heat lamps and relax as we go from place to place since the winter cold isn’t driving us into the warmer climates of the underground subways, taxis and various building lobbies. Trees and flowers now decorate the sidewalks and parks with their colorful blooms. This is the best time of year in New York City so get out and enjoy it.

Back to the pleasantries of the way too short New York City spring season. There’s so much happening now and in the next few weeks that I’m just going to focus on one of my favorites in this post which is the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens.

Brooklyn Botanical Gardens

The grey days are over for the time being at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. It’s been open since mid March but it’s really at it’s best during the warmer months of the year. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom right now and they have managed to keep there petals on despite the hard rain fall this past week. The cherry blossoms are a part of the Hanami Festival at BBG is a month-long celebration from April 2 to May 1 that celebrates the Japanese cultural tradition of enjoying each moment of the cherry blossom season. Too bad that they don’t let you bring a picnic like they do in Japan. Here’s the latest report from the Brooklyn Botanical Garden site which keeps those who are interested updated on the blooms of the day. I also want to note that Tuesdays are free for all and Saturdays admission is free from 10am-Noon unless there’s a special event going on like the Matsuri April 30-May 1st.